The Wagonmaster Award is a lifetime achievement honor, named after Porter Wagoner, that the Americana Music Association presents to those who have made exceptionally valuable contributions to the genre. Lauderdale got his start in the music business in 1991 and, in the 25 years since, has released nearly 30 albums and helped to shape the Americana format. Additionally, his songs have been recorded by Ralph Stanley, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Patty Loveless, Robert Hunter, the North Mississippi All-Stars, Elvis Costello, Lucinda Williams, Donna the Buffalo, Buddy Miller and, of course, Strait. Specifically, Strait has recorded 14 of Lauderdale's tunes throughout his career, including “Where the Sidewalk Ends,” “What Do You Say to That,” and “Twang.”

Lauderdale has also received two Grammys and was the first recipient of the Americana Music Association's Artist of the Year honor. Come Sept. 21, he'll add the Wagonmaster Award to his collection as part of the festivities at the 15th annual Americana Music Awards.

Fans looking to attend the 2016 Americana Music Awards will need to register for the 2016 Americana Music Festival on the event's official website. Additional information about the festival's lineup and this year's Americana Music Awards nominees is also available at that location.